What are the symptoms of lumbar disc herniation?

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Symptoms of lumbar disc herniation include weakness in leg muscles; pain in the front of the thigh; and pain, tingling or numbness in the ankles, knees or legs that begins in the buttocks, according to WebMD. Extreme deep muscle pain and muscle convulsion may also signal that a person has a herniated lumbar disc.

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The most common cause of lumbar disc herniation is disc degeneration, notes WebMD. Aging causes small cracks and tears in the outer layer of the disc. The disc's fluid escapes via the cracks and tears, making the disc break or bulge. Recurring motions, exposure to long-term vibrations, certain sports and wrong lifting of objects may injure the lower back, leading to the problem. A sudden sneeze and body twist, lack of exercise, and smoking may render a person vulnerable to the problem.

Back pain that comes along with bloody urine or painful urination, as well as bowel and bladder incontinence, require immediate medical care, according to WebMD. A medical history, a physical examination, imaging tests, blood tests and X-rays may aid in diagnosing the condition.

Pain-reducing medications, cold and warm compressions, physical therapy and exercise may reduce symptoms, explains WebMD. Surgery may be necessary if nonsurgical treatments fail to reverse the problem or if there is a nerve damage.